Page 166 - Wordsmith A Guide to College Writing

not be left out. The first is a change-of-direction signal. When
switching from one idea to its opposite, you need a word such as but

or however to signal the change. The second required element is a

clear, strong contrast.

Example of a Contrast Introduction

When I hit a home run in the bottom of the ninth to win the game for

the Maple City Tigers, my dad was not there. He missed many family
activities because he believed his first duty was to his job. After I

graduate from college, I will have a career, but it will not be my

only priority. I hope to have a well-rounded life with time for

career, time for family, and time for activities that interest me.

Exercise 4-5 Opening with Contrasting

Ideas

In the blank below each introduction, write the word that serves as a

change-of-direction signal.

1. One of my professors says that students who see college
simply as preparation for a career are in the wrong place.

College, she says, is for those who want to become well

rounded and fully educated. I hate to tell her, but if wisdom

were all that college had to offer, the lecture halls would be

empty. Colleges should replace classes in art appreciation and
French with career skills courses, additional courses in the

student’s major field, and internships in various career fields.